Torn bits of coloured paper stuck to white paper with glue
Blue squiggle

Paper Tearing Collage

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Paper Tearing Collage is a wonderfully simple craft that helps develop fine motor skills and creativity. Children get to enjoy the satisfying act of tearing colourful paper into pieces, then sticking them down to create their own picture or abstract design.

This hands-on activity doesn’t require scissors, so it’s ideal for little ones who are still learning to control their fingers and hands. It also gives them space to express themselves freely through colour and texture.


Materials Needed

  • Coloured paper (scrap paper, old magazines or wrapping paper work too)
  • Glue stick or child-safe liquid glue
  • Large sheet of paper or card for the base

Tools Needed

  • None (optional: glue spreader or brush)

Steps

  1. Gather Materials
    Set out different coloured or textured paper, glue, and a blank sheet to stick pieces onto.
  2. Start Tearing
    Encourage your child to tear the paper into small or big pieces — whatever they like!
  3. Create a Design
    Let them glue the torn pieces onto the base paper in a shape, pattern, or random collage.
  4. Talk as You Go
    Chat about the colours, textures, or what their picture might represent to encourage language development.
  5. Display Their Work
    Once dry, hang up the finished collage somewhere special.

Variations

  • Theme It: Try seasonal collages (e.g. autumn leaves, spring flowers) or a simple landscape like a rainbow or beach.
  • Add Texture: Mix in fabric scraps, foil, or tissue paper for added sensory interest.
  • Sticker Add-Ons: Use stickers or cut-out shapes to add characters or labels to their creation.

Safety Tips

  • Use child-safe glue and ensure little ones don’t try to eat the paper or materials.
  • Supervise closely, especially with younger toddlers.

Tried this activity?

We’d love to hear how it went!

Got a clever twist or fun idea to add?

Share your tips — you might inspire another family!


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